In a deeply troubling incident, a 2-year-old girl was discovered inside a suitcase stored in the luggage compartment of a New Zealand InterCity bus on Sunday, August 3. A 27-year-old woman has been arrested and charged with child neglect in connection with the case. The event unfolded during a planned stop in Kaiwaka, a town on New Zealand’s North Island, and has drawn national concern and global attention.
How the Child Was Discovered
Around 12:50 p.m. local time, a passenger asked to access the bus’s luggage area during a stop. The bus driver noticed a suitcase moving, which immediately raised concerns. Upon opening it, the driver and passengers were shocked to find a toddler inside, wearing only a diaper.
Acting Detective Inspector Simon Harrison of Waitematā’s Criminal Investigation Branch stated that the child was found hot but physically unharmed. She was promptly taken to the hospital for a full medical evaluation, where she remains under care.
Bus Was En Route from Whangārei to Auckland
The InterCity bus had been traveling from Whangārei to Auckland, a common route in the region. Reports say the girl had been inside the suitcase for close to an hour, with no ventilation or supervision—raising serious concerns about her safety and wellbeing.
Authorities are working to understand the relationship between the woman and the child, though her name has not been released.
Woman Arrested and Charged with Child Neglect
Police have charged the woman with ill-treatment or neglect of a child, and she is set to appear in Auckland’s North Shore District Court on Monday, August 4.
Investigators say more charges may follow depending on the outcome of their ongoing investigation. Oranga Tamariki, New Zealand’s Ministry for Children, has also been alerted and is now involved in ensuring the child’s safety and support moving forward.
Praise for the Bus Driver’s Quick Thinking
Police have commended the bus driver for their alertness and swift action, which likely prevented a tragic outcome.
“We would like to acknowledge and commend the bus driver, who noticed something wasn’t right and took immediate action,” said Inspector Harrison.
Thanks to this action, the toddler is now medically stable and in safe hands as authorities coordinate care with her family (whānau) and child protection agencies.
This shocking discovery has sparked widespread concern throughout New Zealand. Fortunately, the quick response by the bus driver and emergency services likely saved the child’s life. While the investigation continues, the top priority remains the health, safety, and future care of the young girl. Authorities and child welfare agencies are working closely together to ensure she receives the support she needs.
